We are visiting family in Polizzi Generosa...their English is not good and my Italian is far worse. Any suggestions on where to stay for a couple of nights? I don't think there are accomodations right in Polizzi...Cefalu or Taormina? Any thoughts?

There are quite a few places to stay in Cefalu. This language school has some listings in Cefalu.

http://www.solemar-sicilia.it/#

This B&B website has some listings for Cefalu also.

http://www.bed-and-breakfast-in-ital...9&IDregione=15

Also try venere.com.

There are several agriturismo in Polizzi Generosa. I'm sure your family would appreciate you supporting the local economy by staying in one of these. Donna Lavia is very nice and just five minutes from the town center. http://www.giardinodonnalavia.com/
The owner's wife is German and speaks English. As a bonus, their restaurant is to die for so be sure to eat at least one meal there a day.

Sincerely,

Melanie

There are a couple nearby with pools listed on the agriturismo website, but you might not want to be so remote or prefer to stay at the beach.
http://www.agriturismo.it/en/farmhouse/sicily/palermo

Since you asked for thoughts, my thoughts are that you stay in Polizzi Generosa. Looking at pictures, it seems exceptionally beautiful and atmsopheric. It is usually memorable beyond description to get off the beaten track in Sicily (certainly away from Taormina and other tourist/cruise ship depots), plus get a chance eat local produce and local recipes. It is highly likely your family will want to show you around and cook a meal for you -- something tourist can only dream of -- so you don't want to be far from them. You can visit Cefalu and Taormina on your own if you feel like. (The Greek theatre in Taorminia is exceptional). I wouldn't over-worry about communications. You'll be amazed at how much words get in the way of understanding, and how talented the locals are at communicating even when a common language is lacking.

Andrea, be sure to read The Stone Boudoir, by Theresa Maggio, if you haven't already. Fantastic book. Much of it centers around exactly where you're going.

Also look for Many Beautiful Things: Stories and Recipes from Polizzi Generosa by Vincent Schiavelli, the actor whose grandfather also hailed from there.

Thanks everyone. I own Schiavelli's book. Often checked out The stone Boudoir but returned it before ever getting the chance to complete it. I emailed your suggestion Melanie...hope it works out. I would love to stay right in Polizzi. If all else fails we will do Cefalu. If anyone else knows of accomodations in Polizzi...PLEASE! PLEASE! let us know!
thank you!

These pop up on Venere.

http://www.venere.com/farmhouses/pol...safa/?ref=9115

http://www.venere.com/farmhouses/pol...rgio/?ref=9115

This hotel is also nearby in case the agriturismo won't rent for less than a week.
http://www.residenzapetra.it/index.p...d=46&Itemid=29